Blackman's Coffin

A Sam Blackman Mystery

By: Mark de Castrique

Narrated by: William Dufris

Sam Blackman is an angry man. A chief warrant officer in the criminal investigation detachment of the U.S. military, he lost a leg in Iraq and has been outspoken in his criticism of his medical treatment. Then, ex-marine and fellow amputee Tikima Robertson walks into his hospital room, hinting that she has an opportunity for Sam to use his investigative skills.

But before she can return, Tikima is murdered. When a journal dating to 1919 is found in Tikima's home, detailing a 90-year-old crime that foreshadows Tikima's death, Sam must delve into the area's rich history to uncover the murderous truth.

©2008 Mark de Castrique (P)2008 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"A wealth of historical detail, an exciting treasure hunt and credible characters distinguish this fresh, adventurous read." ( Publishers Weekly)

a good read

I enjoyed the rich history this book have the characters have chemistry and work together to have a good end the narrator was great I will read from this author again

So Good I'm Going to Book 2 Next

I loved how family genealogy played in the story. Details on prosthetics and working with them was interesting. The story involving modern and a cold case were intertwined. The history of the families was riveting. I loved the strength of Sam as he worked through his issues as well as the murder. Narrator was excellent.

Historical Mystery at Biltmore

I thoroughly enjoyed this first in a series about combat wounded, Sam Blackman who lost a leg in Iraq and after poor medical treatment at Walter Reed Medical Center is recovering in the VA hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. There he meets fellow service member and amputee, Timika Robertson. After some Army versus Marines banter, the two become friends, but too soon Timika is found murdered, and floating in a local river. When Sam sneaks out of his hospital room to attend Tamika's funeral, meeting her family, he ends up speaking at her service. Afterward Timika's sister, Nakayla contacts Sam asking for his help in solving Timika's murder. She has found a journal dating back to 1919 in her sister's apartment and a note reading "for Sam". Her sister's apartment had been ransacked and the journal was hidden inside the book jacket of a different book. This story, going between current day and 1919 is rich with historical details about Biltmore Estate and the times in which it was built. Although it is a work of fiction and not altogether factual, I found it to be a wonderful story of family and right choices made at a time when most would have chosen otherwise. I loved it when it all came together. Other readers/listeners were put off by the fact that the tale was a little far fetched . . . not me . . . it was the perfect setting for just a tad bit of wonder and magic. And it was well offset by the evil that was pursuing it. Not to give any of this jewel of a tale away, suffice to say, you won't want to miss this one. On a side note, I found the narration to be good with one exception, the person is certainly not from the south 😂😂😂 or he would know how to pronounce Birmingham.

Great read/Listen

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this. It moved well and kept my interest. I enjoyed it even more as I have lived in Asheville for the last 23 years and truly enjoyed the history of Asheville and the area that was documented in this book.

It was very interesting and educational.

Wanted the story to continue, I would prefer not to end the book. Enjoy